Government current transfer payments
A084RC1Q027SBEA • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
4,874.19
Year-over-Year Change
18.97%
Date Range
1/1/1947 - 4/1/2025
Summary
Government current transfer payments measure the amount of money the U.S. government provides to individuals and businesses in the form of social benefits, subsidies, and other transfers. This metric is closely watched by economists and policymakers to assess the government's role in supporting the economy.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
Government current transfer payments represent the flow of money from the public sector to the private sector, excluding capital transfers. This includes social insurance benefits, social assistance benefits, and subsidies to businesses and non-profit institutions. The trend provides insight into the government's fiscal policy and its impact on household and business income.
Methodology
The data is collected by the Bureau of Economic Analysis as part of the National Income and Product Accounts.
Historical Context
Policymakers use this metric to evaluate the effectiveness of government programs and their influence on economic growth, inflation, and income inequality.
Key Facts
- Government transfer payments account for about 15% of U.S. GDP.
- Social Security and Medicare are the largest components of transfer payments.
- Transfer payments have increased significantly since the 2008 financial crisis.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: Government current transfer payments measure the flow of money from the public sector to the private sector in the form of social benefits, subsidies, and other transfers.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric provides insight into the government's fiscal policy and its impact on household and business income, which is important for economists and policymakers.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected by the Bureau of Economic Analysis as part of the National Income and Product Accounts.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers use this metric to evaluate the effectiveness of government programs and their influence on economic growth, inflation, and income inequality.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published quarterly with a lag of several months.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Government current transfer payments (A084RC1Q027SBEA), retrieved from FRED.